November in Manhattan
Exit Covid, enter Trump! One disaster replacing another. Mid-November, this was the opinion of many of my New York City friends. I spent a week in Manhattan, my usual Fall visit. Covid has not totally gone, but a reminder of the pandemic was being taken away: most of Manhattan Covid dining sheds were being removed. During the pandemic, with the city blessing, these street sheds blossomed. They were a lifeline for restaurants. Officially called Open Restaurants, these airy street-side shacks provided un semblant of protection against the aggressive virus. During my routine Fall and Spring visits, I patronized them, lunch or dinner al fresco, or semi-fresco for most of them. Many sheds were eyesores; however, some were very cozy, welcoming, often even nicer than the indoor restaurant. They were popular with patrons and restaurateurs; on the other hand, many city drivers opposed them as legal land grab. Now, the city wants...